James Marsden is an American actor known for his diverse range of roles in movies and television. One of his most memorable performances was in the film "Enchanted" where he portrayed a lovable prince. However, there is another role that Marsden took on which is perhaps not as well-known - his portrayal of the Magic 8 Ball. In the early 2000s, Marsden lent his voice to the iconic Magic 8 Ball toy in a series of commercials. The Magic 8 Ball is a classic fortune-telling device that provides answers to yes-or-no questions. It has a spherical shape, reminiscent of a pool ball, with a window on one side through which a floating 20-sided die with various answers can be seen.
I'd just let it warm up and drive it till it breaks!
Scott; I live in a somewhat rural area Smalltown MS USA , but the local transmission shop owner guy has been in the family started business for about 30 years as a transmission rebuilder. Scott; I live in a somewhat rural area Smalltown MS USA , but the local transmission shop owner guy has been in the family started business for about 30 years as a transmission rebuilder.
It has a spherical shape, reminiscent of a pool ball, with a window on one side through which a floating 20-sided die with various answers can be seen. When the ball is shaken, the die settles on an answer, providing a response to the user's question. Marsden's voiceover work for the Magic 8 Ball commercials added a touch of humor and charm to the iconic toy.
Vintage Thunderbird Club International
Recently purchased (as is) a nice 63 Hardtop w/390, ac, etc, etc. Before loading it on a trailer, I drove it about 30 minutes with no problems. Very good looking car, but found out a day after I got home that the trans has problems. Shifts fine after 20 minutes or so driving 40 mph, but will not shift into high when cold (he drove it before I got there to warm it up). Contacted seller and naturally he says that it was that way for the 6 years he owned/drove it. Local trans shop guy says he should be able (??) to rebuild it ($1,000 - 1,200), but I could just go ahead and drive it 'til it won't. Help. Any info or insight from experience. Thanks.
RedBird64 Posts: 2234 Joined: Wed Oct 31, 2012 11:42 pm Location: Bothell Wa.Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by RedBird64 » Thu May 02, 2019 11:19 am
Are you aware of the white dot / green dot postitions for the gear selector?
Green dot (where drive usually is) will have the car start out in second and go to third - great for snow.
White dot (where second usually is) is normal drive for our cars. It starts in first and shifts out normally.
If you use the green dot, it will feel like the car only has two gears.
1964 Coupe Wimbledon white/Rangoon Red w/black int. Owned for 42 years. It was my folks car before that (second owners). VTCI # 12013.
ricklove Posts: 89 Joined: Thu May 02, 2019 9:33 am Contact:Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by ricklove » Thu May 02, 2019 11:30 am
Whoops; forgot the intro. 71 year car guy that just purchased my favorite year Bullet Bird. Have ridden Gold Wings for over 30 years, then bought a 48 Ford Tudor Sedan street rod 5 years ago. Love long walks on the beach . wrong forum. Not that's done, lets try again. Yes, I'm aware of the green dot/white dot selector. When this thing is cold, reverse struggles to move, but more gas does it. In drive (white or green dot), will not shift into drive until it's warm (about 5 miles @ 40 mph). After warmed up completely; runs, shifts, and drives great!
Mheiron Posts: 130 Joined: Tue Dec 15, 2015 9:49 am Location: Houston, Texas areaRe: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by Mheiron » Thu May 02, 2019 11:37 am
I'd just let it warm up and drive it till it breaks!
Maybe change the fluid and filter. See whats in the tranny pan if anything. You'd also then know it has the correct fluid in it.
Keep the re-build cost in your pocket as long as possible.
Mark H.
Current bird nest:
1961 Restored Chestnut Convertible
1963 M-code Hard Top - Being restored
1995 White T-bird Super Coupe - Fun Toy
Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by RedBird64 » Thu May 02, 2019 3:59 pm
Normal failure mode. Pump is going bad.
Presonally, I would not drive it that way for fear of damaging parts that are not part of the rebuild kit. Some parts, like drums, are getting hard to find.
If your going to get it fixed anyway, why not just go for it and enjoy a better performing, worry free trans.
As a side note, without warning you will start it cold one day and it wont move at all. Then it will have to be towed.
A rebuilt COM is a very nice functining trans because of the better parts and shift kit used. You'll also not need to use Type F fluid anymore and instaed, you can use the common stuff.
1964 Coupe Wimbledon white/Rangoon Red w/black int. Owned for 42 years. It was my folks car before that (second owners). VTCI # 12013.
ricklove Posts: 89 Joined: Thu May 02, 2019 9:33 am Contact:Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by ricklove » Thu May 02, 2019 6:32 pm
Thanks to each of you for the info and advice! ricklove Posts: 89 Joined: Thu May 02, 2019 9:33 am Contact:Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by ricklove » Sun May 05, 2019 11:12 am
RedBird64 wrote: ↑ Thu May 02, 2019 3:59 pm Normal failure mode. Pump is going bad.
Presonally, I would not drive it that way for fear of damaging parts that are not part of the rebuild kit. Some parts, like drums, are getting hard to find.
If your going to get it fixed anyway, why not just go for it and enjoy a better performing, worry free trans.
As a side note, without warning you will start it cold one day and it wont move at all. Then it will have to be towed.
A rebuilt COM is a very nice functining trans because of the better parts and shift kit used. You'll also not need to use Type F fluid anymore and instaed, you can use the common stuff.
Scott; I live in a somewhat rural area (Smalltown MS USA), but the local transmission shop owner guy has been in the family started business for about 30+ years as a transmission rebuilder. He and his shop are highly recommended by local auto parts stores and other folks that have known him and his shop for many years. He says that he's confident that he can get ALL the parts needed for a successful rebuild. He does not recommend trying to go the newer C4 swap route. He says it'll take about 2 weeks and approx $1,200 total costs. Is there anyone out there that offers a "swap out" COM trans? Any ideas that I need to look into before I "pull the trigger" and go the local route? I am a new Bullet Bird owner and I'm finding out that these old Fords had a lot of quirks due to the technology of the times. Thanks!
vince Posts: 563 Joined: Fri Jul 16, 2004 12:08 pm Location: St. Louis, MORe: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by vince » Mon May 06, 2019 9:46 pm
If you are intent on a change now, I would have the transmission you have rebuilt. As to an already rebuilt unit, your in town builder can probably rebuild yours in about the same time another unit can be shipped in. The benefit he offers is you know the transmission will work without modifications. The COM has some slight mods year over year and the marketer can ship you a unit which "should" work but could also just miss. Been there.
Also, not sure where the C4 came in to the discussion but your builder is right this is NOT the right transmission for your car. The C4 is a great transmission when mated to a small block Ford. An AOD would give you overdrive but it needs bunches of mods. So, you need to carefully think about whether any benefit is worth the pain. The COM, as mentioned, is a good transmission, I'd keep it.
'66 Convertible, 428, in progress ricklove Posts: 89 Joined: Thu May 02, 2019 9:33 am Contact:Re: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by ricklove » Tue May 07, 2019 10:18 am
Thanks for the advice Vince!! Based on yours and others input, I'm going to go the local rebuild route sometime in the not so distant future. I try to hold onto my money as long as possible, but willing to spend it when necessary or needed.
fordrodsteven Posts: 160 Joined: Mon Apr 24, 2017 7:46 pmRe: Cruise O'Matic Problems
Post by fordrodsteven » Tue May 07, 2019 12:05 pm
ricklove wrote: ↑ Thu May 02, 2019 10:57 am Recently purchased (as is) a nice 63 Hardtop w/390, ac, etc, etc. Before loading it on a trailer, I drove it about 30 minutes with no problems. Very good looking car, but found out a day after I got home that the trans has problems. Shifts fine after 20 minutes or so driving 40 mph, but will not shift into high when cold (he drove it before I got there to warm it up). Contacted seller and naturally he says that it was that way for the 6 years he owned/drove it. Local trans shop guy says he should be able (??) to rebuild it ($1,000 - 1,200), but I could just go ahead and drive it 'til it won't. Help. Any info or insight from experience. Thanks.
I personally would check and / or change out the vacuum modulator. It is a small diaphragm type valve mounted on the transmission. It's job is to allow the shift into high when certain other parameters are met. You could have a vacuum leak where a hose crack or connection opens up as the car warms up and it will cause the modulator to not see the parameters that it needs to make the shift to high speed. The modulator diaphragm could be failing and it would also stop the car from shifting into high gear. I think I would try the modulator for less than $25 before diving into a rebuild. How old are the vacuum lines? you can change those (from the engine to the modulator) and may have it fixed for less than $40!
Normal failure mode. Pump is going bad.
Presonally, I would not drive it that way for fear of damaging parts that are not part of the rebuild kit. Some parts, like drums, are getting hard to find.
If your going to get it fixed anyway, why not just go for it and enjoy a better performing, worry free trans.
As a side note, without warning you will start it cold one day and it wont move at all. Then it will have to be towed.
His smooth and confident delivery made the Magic 8 Ball seem like a wise and mystical oracle. With his distinctive voice, Marsden brought the Magic 8 Ball to life, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for children and adults alike. Although the Magic 8 Ball is primarily a toy, it has achieved cultural significance, becoming a symbol of decision-making and seeking guidance. Marsden's involvement in the commercials helped to reinforce the popularity and appeal of this classic toy. In addition to his work as the voice of the Magic 8 Ball, James Marsden has had a successful career in the entertainment industry. He has appeared in numerous films, including "X-Men" and "The Notebook," showcasing his talent and versatility as an actor. Overall, James Marsden's portrayal of the Magic 8 Ball in commercials added a touch of magic and charm to this iconic toy. His voiceover work brought the toy to life, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for audiences. Whether it's shaking the Magic 8 Ball to seek guidance or watching Marsden's performances on screen, both have provided moments of entertainment and joy..
Reviews for "How the Magic 8 Ball Helped James Marsden Navigate Hollywood"
1. Grace - 1/5 stars - James Marsden Magic 8 Ball is a complete disappointment. The product claims to provide insightful answers and predictions, but all it does is regurgitate generic phrases that don't offer any real guidance. I was hoping for something fun and interactive, but instead, I got a flimsy plastic ball with pre-programmed responses that quickly became repetitive. Save your money and invest in a more reliable fortune-telling toy.
2. Alex - 2/5 stars - While the concept of a magic 8 ball can be entertaining, James Marsden Magic 8 Ball falls short in delivering an enjoyable experience. The voice response is overly robotic and lacks any charisma. Additionally, the answers provided by this magic 8 ball are often vague and unhelpful. I was hoping for something that would spark interesting conversations or provide insightful responses, but instead, I got a lackluster and underwhelming toy.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I was really excited to try out the James Marsden Magic 8 Ball, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The plastic casing feels cheap and the answers it gives are often contradictory, leaving me confused and frustrated. It's also worth noting that the voice recognition technology is subpar, as it often fails to understand my questions correctly. Overall, I was disappointed with the product and wouldn't recommend it to others.
4. Patrick - 1/5 stars - As a fan of James Marsden, I had high hopes for this Magic 8 Ball. However, it failed to impress. The voice of James Marsden sounds robotic and lacks the charm and wit that I admire in his performances. Furthermore, the answers provided are downright generic and uninteresting. It's a shame that this collaboration didn't result in a better product. Save your money and look for a more interactive and engaging toy.